Ku Leuven

This study compared two procedures for treating achalasia, a condition where the esophagus doesn't relax properly. One is a balloon dilation (pneumodilation) and the other is a surgery called POEM done through a scope. 132 adults with achalasia were randomly assigned to one treat…

This study tested whether giving prucalopride, a drug used for constipation, before surgery could reduce inflammation and help people recover faster after pancreatic surgery. The idea is that prucalopride might mimic nerve stimulation that calms the immune system. The trial invol…

This study tested a cold air breathing challenge in 60 adults (some with asthma, some healthy) to see if it can safely tell the difference between asthma and normal lungs. Researchers measured lung function and symptoms after the test. The goal is to develop a more reliable tool …

This study looked at how to make a fall prevention program work better for older adults living at home. About 550 people aged 65 and older who had fallen or had balance concerns took part. The goal was to see if carefully tracking how the program was delivered could improve its u…

This study tested whether a split-belt treadmill (where each leg moves at a different speed) can reduce freezing of gait during turning in people with Parkinson's disease. 26 participants completed a 4-week training program that included practicing everyday turning scenarios. The…

This pilot study tested a new robot-based therapy program to improve arm function in 10 people who had a stroke at least 6 months ago. The program combined robot-assisted training, practice with daily activities, and home exercises over 4 weeks. The goal was to see if the approac…

This study tested a new type of brain training, called neurofeedback, combined with mindfulness meditation to help people with stress. Eighty adults with mild to severe stress symptoms completed 10 sessions where they learned to increase a specific brainwave pattern during medita…

This study tested an intensive motor rehabilitation program that uses advanced technology to help adults with chronic stroke or spinal cord injury improve their daily functioning. 102 participants were randomly assigned to either the tech-enhanced rehab or a control group. The go…

This study tested a wearable device called the MOX activity monitor in 40 older adults (70+) recovering from hip fracture, stroke, or frailty in a hospital rehab ward. The goal was to measure how much they walk, stand, or sit during the day and see if that data helps track recove…

People with achalasia, a swallowing disorder, have a much higher risk of developing esophageal cancer. This study tested whether spraying a special dye (Lugol) during an endoscopy could help doctors find early signs of cancer (dysplasia) in 39 patients who had achalasia for over …

This completed study looked at how short-chain fatty acids (SCFA), which are made when gut bacteria break down fiber, affect hunger-related hormones. Twenty-eight healthy adults took capsules that released SCFA in either the small intestine or the colon. Researchers measured horm…

This study looked at how short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) enter the bloodstream when delivered to different parts of the gut. Thirteen healthy adults took capsules that released SCFAs in either the small intestine or the colon. Researchers took blood samples over 12 hours to compa…

This study looked at whether taking a ketone supplement after exercise and before sleep helps cyclists recover from physical and mental fatigue during a multi-day race. 18 experienced cyclists took part, and researchers measured muscle soreness, sleep quality, and thinking skills…

This study looked at whether practicing a fine motor task while doing a second task (like counting lights) helps people with Parkinson's disease remember the motor skill better. Eighty participants, including people with Parkinson's and healthy controls, practiced a finger moveme…